Italian Style Noodle Casserole
A hearty Italian-style noodle casserole layered with rich tomato sauce, creamy cottage cheese, and melted American cheese, topped with seasoned bread crumbs for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook noodles in boiling salted water; rinse and drain.
- Combine tomato sauce, cottage cheese, dried crushed basil, salt, and diced onion; blend well.
- Arrange alternate layers of noodles, American cheese, and sauce in a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with bread crumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in a 350° to 375°F oven for approximately 25 minutes or until hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider blending in some ricotta cheese or using a mix of cottage cheese and cream cheese. You can substitute wide noodles with lasagne noodles for a different presentation, or use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Adjust the amount of basil and onion based on your taste preferences to enhance flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Italian Style Noodle Casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad dressed in vinaigrette and some garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine complements the flavors nicely. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a light vegetable soup for a hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Style Noodle Casserole contains roughly 103 calories, with 10g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1610mg per serving (70% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of American cheese?
Yes, you can substitute American cheese with mozzarella for a stretchier texture or cheddar for a sharper flavor. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will slightly alter the taste and creaminess of the casserole.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just increase the baking time slightly if it's coming straight from the fridge. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer without losing flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).